Compania Pilgrimage

Institution Name: Boston College
Program Contact Name: Burt Howell & Tomeu Estelrich
Program Contact Email: howellbu@bc.edu
Program Contact Phone Number: (617) 552-6141
Short Program Description:

Administrators and faculty from Boston College explore the mission of a Catholic and Jesuit university together through an Ignatian pilgrimage. A cohort of 17 professors and administrators travel to Spain and Rome for 10 days to retrace some key steps in the unfolding life journey of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Spending these days together—as pilgrims, not just tourists—colleagues develop deeper insights into who Ignatius was, enjoy time to reflect on their personal experiences and life journeys, and have plenty of opportunities to share ideas over meals and fellowship.

Program Goals/Intended Outcomes:

*Deepen understanding of Catholic and Jesuit mission through formative experience
*Motivate faculty and staff to integrate mission into their teaching, research, and mentoring
*Grow the core group of campus leaders who advocate for the University’s mission among their peers

How long does it take to complete the program?: Multiple Days
Total Program Length: One year
Key University/Other Partners: Partnership between Center for Ignatian Spirituality and Intersections
Funding Source(s): University Mission and Ministry
Stipends Paid or Other Participant Benefits: Travel Expenses Paid
Program Material 1: Pilgrimage Invitation Letter
Program Material 2: Pilgrimage Travel Schedule
Program Material 4: 2025 Day Retreat Schedule
Lessons Learned:

This has been an extraordinary program for the Center for Ignatian Spirituality and Intersections. The Compania Pilgrimage has become increasingly popular in the campus culture, leading to participation from a wide variety of colleagues at different levels of knowledge and experience. The pilgrimage dynamic is ideal for learning and fostering connection to the institution.